10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Nausea

Herbal essential oils have been traditionally used to alleviate nausea due to their calming and digestive properties.

Oils such as peppermint, ginger, and lavender are commonly recommended for their ability to soothe the stomach and reduce feelings of queasiness. When used aromatically, topically, or in small diluted amounts, these oils can provide natural relief without the side effects of pharmaceuticals. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for pregnant individuals or those with underlying health conditions.

Proper dilution and safe application methods are essential to ensure effectiveness and minimize potential irritation.

1. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is widely recognized for its effectiveness in alleviating nausea and vomiting.

The essential oils derived from fresh ginger roots contain bioactive compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which have potent antiemetic properties. These oils can be used in aromatherapy or diluted in carrier oils for topical application to help ease motion sickness, morning sickness, and nausea caused by illness or chemotherapy. Studies suggest that the aromatic compounds in ginger essential oil may interact with the central nervous system to reduce gastrointestinal distress.

Incorporating zingiber officinale essential oil into a holistic approach can offer a natural and effective remedy for various types of nausea.

2. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a widely used herb in aromatherapy for its refreshing and invigorating essential oil.

The essential oil of peppermint contains compounds like menthol and menthone, which have been shown to have a calming effect on the digestive system. It is often used to alleviate symptoms of nausea, particularly in cases of motion sickness or gastrointestinal discomfort. The cooling sensation of peppermint oil can help soothe the stomach and reduce the feeling of queasiness.

When used in diffusers, topical applications, or as part of a steam inhalation, peppermint essential oil can provide natural relief from nausea.

3. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used to alleviate nausea.

The primary active compounds in these oils, such as cinnamaldehyde and eugenol, possess anti-emetic properties that may help reduce feelings of sickness. Studies suggest that the aromatic compounds in cinnamon essential oil can stimulate the digestive system and ease gastrointestinal discomfort. When used in aromatherapy or diluted for topical application, these oils may provide natural relief for nausea caused by motion sickness, food poisoning, or digestive disorders.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially for pregnant individuals or those with underlying health conditions.

4. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their digestive benefits.

The essential oils derived from black pepper, particularly those rich in compounds like piperine, may help alleviate nausea by stimulating digestive enzymes and improving gastrointestinal motility. These oils can be used in aromatherapy or diluted in carrier oils for topical application, offering a natural remedy for motion sickness or post-meal discomfort. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using these oils, especially for pregnant women or individuals with existing health conditions.

While some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety in treating nausea.

5. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, produces essential oils that have been traditionally used to alleviate nausea and digestive discomfort.

The primary compounds in rosemary essential oil, such as 1,8-cineole and camphor, possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe the gastrointestinal tract. When used aromatically or topically, rosemary essential oil can help reduce feelings of nausea by promoting digestion and easing stomach cramps. It is often recommended for conditions like motion sickness, morning sickness, and digestive upset.

However, it should be used with caution and diluted properly, as it may cause skin irritation or interact with certain medications.

6. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is a herb whose essential oil has been traditionally used for its digestive benefits, including the relief of nausea.

The essential oil is derived through steam distillation of the dried seeds and contains compounds like limonene and cineole, which are known for their calming and anti-emetic properties. Studies suggest that inhaling or applying cumin essential oil may help reduce feelings of nausea by stimulating the digestive system and easing gastrointestinal discomfort. It is often used in aromatherapy or as a natural remedy for motion sickness, morning sickness, and post-operative nausea.

However, it is important to use cumin essential oil in diluted form and consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for pregnant women or those with underlying health conditions.

7. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is widely recognized for its calming and soothing properties, making its essential oil a valuable natural remedy for nausea.

The essential oil is derived from the flowering tops of the plant through steam distillation, capturing its aromatic compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Studies suggest that the calming effect of lavender oil can help reduce anxiety and stress, which are common contributors to feelings of nausea. When used in aromatherapy, diluted lavender essential oil can be inhaled to provide relief from motion sickness, morning sickness, or nausea associated with illness.

Its gentle nature makes it a safe and effective option for many individuals seeking natural relief from nausea without the use of pharmaceuticals.

8. Citrus sinensis

Citrus sinensis, commonly known as sweet orange, is a citrus fruit whose essential oil is widely used in herbal medicine for its soothing and calming properties.

The essential oil is extracted through cold pressing of the fruit's peel and contains compounds like limonene, linalool, and myrcene, which are known for their anti-nausea effects. Studies suggest that inhaling or applying citrus sinensis essential oil can help alleviate nausea by stimulating the release of calming neurotransmitters and reducing gastrointestinal distress. It is often used in aromatherapy to ease motion sickness, morning sickness, and post-operative nausea.

Due to its pleasant aroma and gentle nature, citrus sinensis essential oil is considered a safe and effective natural remedy for managing nausea.

9. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Foeniculum vulgare, commonly known as fennel, is a herb widely used for its essential oils, which are known to help alleviate nausea.

The essential oil of fennel contains compounds such as anethol and limonene, which have soothing and anti-emetic properties. When used in aromatherapy, inhaling fennel essential oil can help calm the digestive system and reduce feelings of queasiness. It is often recommended for use during pregnancy, motion sickness, or after meals to ease gastrointestinal discomfort.

However, it is important to dilute the essential oil properly and consult with a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing health conditions.

10. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)

Eucalyptus globulus, commonly known as Australian tea tree or blue gum, is a species of eucalyptus that produces a highly aromatic essential oil widely used for its therapeutic properties.

This essential oil contains compounds such as 1,8-cineole, which have been studied for their potential antiemetic effects. Research suggests that eucalyptus globulus essential oil may help alleviate nausea by reducing gastrointestinal discomfort and promoting relaxation of the digestive system. It is often used in aromatherapy, either through inhalation or topical application, to provide relief from motion sickness, morning sickness, or nausea associated with illness.

However, it is important to use this oil responsibly, as it should be diluted before application and may interact with certain medications or conditions.